For all the criticism lobbied against U.S. automakers, there is one area where the American car makers take the lead: FFVs. Flexible fuel vehicles [FFV, which are powered by a fuel comprised of up to 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline, are produced and marketed by American manufacturers at volumes greater than their Asian or European competitors combined.

DaimlerChrysler?s list includes their Town & Country and Caravan minivans, the Ram pickup truck, and the Stratus and Sebring sedans. Ford?s Taurus, Explorer and Ranger are the blue oval?s FFVs while for GM, various pick up trucks and SUVs make up their offerings. Isuzu, Mazda, Mercedes, Volvo, and Nissan all produce FFVs, while Honda and Toyota do not.

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Volkswagen is the first automaker to offer its customers a factory-fitted automotive communication solution that supports the Bluetooth SIM Access Profile. The handset integration product provides compatibility with a wide range of mobile phones from various manufacturers. A mobile phone holder is also offered as an option for users who wish to charge their phone in the car.

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Audi broke the mold when its concept TT car was presented at auto shows around the globe during the mid1990s. Named for the prestigious annual ?Tourist Trophy? race held on the Isle of Man, the TT is based on the same platform which powers the Volkswagen Golf and the Skoda Octavia. Making use of anodized aluminum and a ?bumper free? exterior, the TT coupe was unlike any car of its time when the first production model was released in 1998. Today, the TT continues to garner awards and win praises from Audi aficionados. If you like the current model, just wait one year and you will witness the release of a TT that goes well beyond the pale.

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The Skinny on H&R Springs:
H&R Special Springs offers 3 different stages of spring kits, 2 stages of matched shock and spring packages, wheel spacers, a large selection of 60mm (2.3) race springs, as well as numerous special order racing applications. OE Sport Springs are a Stage 1 modification which means that they provide minimal lowering level and a just slightly more aggressive stance. The Sport Spring kit in the Stage 2 group offer more for styling appearance and increased stiffness of 25-30%. The Race Springs are a Stage 3 modification and provide extreme lowering as well a much firmer, higher performance ride.

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